The Nigerian military has defended a recent airstrike carried out at Jilli village market along the Borno–Yobe border, stating that the operation targeted a known terrorist logistics hub linked to insurgent activity, even as reports of heavy civilian casualties continue to generate public outrage.
The strike, conducted under Operation Hadin Kai, has drawn conflicting accounts, with local sources claiming dozens of civilians may have been killed while others suggest the toll could be significantly higher amid ongoing uncertainty.
Military authorities, however, insist the location was a legitimate target used by insurgents for coordination and logistics. They explained that the operation was based on sustained intelligence, surveillance, and aerial monitoring that tracked suspicious movements consistent with terrorist activity in the area.
According to the military, the strike followed reports of armed groups converging on the location ahead of suspected attacks on nearby communities and troops. Officials further stated that precision targeting was used and that the operation successfully hit its intended objective, disrupting insurgent operations and destroying equipment.
Despite this, emergency response authorities in the region confirmed that civilians, including traders from neighbouring communities, were affected during the strike. Medical teams and security agencies have since been deployed to assess the situation and support victims.
Borno State authorities described the area as previously restricted due to suspected insurgent activity, while also reaffirming coordination with security forces in ongoing counterterrorism efforts. The Yobe State government also acknowledged that civilians were unintentionally caught in the incident and confirmed that some injured victims are receiving treatment.
The incident has triggered strong reactions from rights groups and political figures who have called for an independent investigation into the operation. Critics argue that the strike raises concerns about civilian protection during military operations in conflict zones.
In response, the Nigerian Air Force announced the activation of a special investigative team to determine the circumstances surrounding the strike and assess possible civilian harm, stressing its commitment to accountability and operational transparency.
Security analysts have urged the military to strengthen intelligence verification systems, improve targeting procedures, and enhance civilian protection measures to reduce the risk of future incidents.
